The Research Program in Drug Development (PPDF) began with the new formatting of university management at the Institute of Biomedical Sciences (ICB) of the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ), which adopted the format of Research Programs to replace the old organization departmental structure.

Covering aspects of Pharmacology and Medicinal Chemistry the main goal of PPDF is respond in an integrated manner the challenges inherent in drug development, considering the different stages of the innovation chain of drugs and medicines.

Consistent with the national challenges of the sector, PPDF choose as mission to promote scientific capability in drug innovation, contributing to qualified human resource formation.